Improvement in bridle-bits



J. G() DYEAR.

Bridle-Bits.

Patented March 10,187.4g4

Nrrnn STATESl FFIGE.

JOHNGOODYEAR, OF GRO'ION, NEW YORK.

IMPROVEMENT IN RlDLE-BITS.

Specification forming part of Letters Patent No. 148,293, dated March 10,1874; application filed May 24, 1873.

'bridle-bits.

In the drawings, Figure l represents my bit :is-opened, showing the style of its construction. Fig. 2 shows how it may be employed as a snaffle-bit; Fig. 3, how employed as a moderate check-bit; Fig. 4, ,how employed as a severe check-bit; and Fig. 5, a variation in the construction of the larger bit-rings.

My invention consists as follows: The two parts A A' are so fashioned that, when turning upon the pivot a, they will open, forming an X, and when closed will form a smooth and uniform shaft. rIhis is accomplished by the provision of a scissors or forceps joint at the middle portion. Although I do not confine myself to the style of joint as herewith exhibited, any joint may be employed that will afford a smooth and uniform surface to the bit when closed. To the ends of the parts A A' are attached, in any suitable manner, the bitrings B B', each part A A' holding, alternately, a large ring, B, and a small one, B', so that, when closed, the bit, at either end, shall be provided with a large and small ring, as shown in Fig 2. The large rings B may be either plain or provided with slots for the attachment of appropriate straps, as shown in Fig. 5.

The operations of my invention are as follows: When a snaffle-bit is desired, the large simple straight shaft.

rings B are thrown between the smaller ones B', or this order may be reversed by putting the small rings between the large ones.- In the first case the reins are attached to the smaller rings B', and in the second to the large rings B. It will be seen in this arrangement that the bit will not open, but will remain a If a moderate checkbit is wanted, the reins are attached to both rings B B', as shown in Fig. 3. In this case the blades of the bit are slightly opened, and the animal correspondingly held in cheek. When a severe check-bit is called for, the large rings B are swimg around against the opposite side of the bit, from which they are attached, as shown in Fig. 4L. These will now be connectedv by the chin-strap O, and the reins attached to the lesser rings B' and brought back. When tension is made upon the reins, as now arranged, the blades A A' will be opened, and the jaw of the animal be compressed in the space D, while his mouth is forced open by the opening of the bit.

If desired, a rubber or any elastic covering or shield may be provided, which shall envelop the shaft A A', protecting the tongue and mouth of the animal when the blades are drawn Open.

I claim as my invention- In combination with the bit, composed of the two parts A A', pivoted or joined at their middle portions, the` different-sized swiveled rings B B', substantially as and for the purposes set forth.

In testimony that I 'claim the foregoing I have hereunto set my hand this 17th day of May, 1873.

JOHN GOODYEAR.

Witnesses:

EDM. F. BROWN, Lnvnnnrr L. LEGGETT. 

